Three main phases
Secure
The first phase is pest and weed control. Getting rid of weeds and animal pests will protect biodiversity already on the maunga.
Taranaki Mounga aims to get rid of goats. Possums, rodents, hares, and mustelids will be controlled by trapping, ground and aerial predator control.
The project also aims to get rid of the worst weeds. These include wild ginger, climbing asparagus, and others where possible.
Restore
Getting rid of weeds and predators will help birds and other native species to increase in numbers.
Taranaki Mounga will bring back lost species like:
- toutouwai/robin
- kākāriki
- kākā
- seabirds like petrels.
It is hoped kōkako, pekapeka/bats, and tīeke/saddleback will once again flourish on the Mounga.
The project will also work to increase numbers of species already there. These include:
- kiwi
- whio/blue duck
- pekapeka/long tailed bats
- Powelliphanta snails
- rare plants like Dactylanthus and the endemic Melicytus drucei shrub, found only on Taranaki and nearby Pouakai.
Sustain
Taranaki Mounga wants to inspire young people to be the next generation of kaitiaki of the Mounga and national park. The aim in 20 years is to see ecological, social, and cultural change for the better on the Mounga.
The project has two supporting outcomes:
The creation of a halo
Taranaki Mounga will work with partners to develop effective means of pest control to protect the park and beyond. Taranaki Regional Council are leading this work. A halo of protection around the Mounga is a part of the Taranaki Taku Tūranga, towards a predator free Taranaki programme of work (https://trc.govt.nz/environment/working-together/pf-taranaki2050/).
The creation of a halo will reduce the risk of pests and predators moving onto the Mounga. It will also provide habitat for species that move out of the national park and into surrounding areas.
Oranga Mounga Oranga Tangata – Healthy Nature, Healthy People
This part of the project recognises that being in nature is good for wellbeing; in this case, a connection with the Mounga. The project will therefore help other important plans to improve health, education, skill development, and wellbeing.
